Rio-grande-tiger-beetle
Guides
Ellipsoptera sperata
Rio Grande Tiger Beetle, Flashy Tiger Beetle
Ellipsoptera sperata is a species of tiger beetle in the subfamily Cicindelinae, commonly known as the Rio Grande Tiger Beetle. It occurs in Central America and North America, with its distribution spanning the southwestern United States and Mexico. The species is one of three recognized subspecies within E. sperata, alongside E. s. inquisitor and E. s. vauriei. As a member of the genus Ellipsoptera, it shares the characteristic elliptical wing shape and preference for sandy or saline habitats typical of this group.